Ovarian reserve after laparoscopic treatment of unilateral ovarian endometrioma

To evaluate the effect of laparoscopic treatment of unilateral ovarian endometrioma on ovarian reserve using ultrasonographic markers, ovarian volume and antral follicle count (AFC), and two biochemical markers, serum levels of Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and Estradiol (E2).

This prospective study included 40 patients in their reproductive age, between 18 and 40 years old. They were treated laparoscopically for unilateral ovarian endometrioma. Markers of ovarian reserve were investigated before and three months after surgery. Transvaginal ultrasound examination was used for measurement of ovarian volume and AFC. Biochemical markers (FSH and E2 levels) were determined by chemiluminescent tests.

Ovarian volume was significantly reduced after surgery. There was significant increase of AFC and non-significant increase of E2 levels in treated patients after three months.

Laparoscopic cystectomy of unilateral ovarian endometrioma decreased ovarian reserve immediately after surgery with decrease of ovarian volume. But ovarian reserve was increased after three months with increase of AFC and estradiol levels.